by Jesse Holth –
Many people find it difficult to prioritize their own self-care and carve out that ever-important “me time” in their busy schedules. Whether it’s burning the candle at both ends, feeling that others should be looked after first, or simply forgetting about the little things, we often need reminding to take a step back.
Before the rush of the holiday season, take some time to focus on giving back to yourself and embracing your own self-care rituals. Feed your physical, mental, and emotional well-being – in other words, care for yourself with intention. Other than exercise, healthy eating and quality sleep, self-care can take many forms: spending time in nature; having coffee with a friend; crafting or being creative; reading a book; meditating; listening to music; having a cup of tea by the fire; gardening; unplugging from your electronics; or keeping a gratitude journal.
Regularly engaging in these activities can improve your self-esteem, boost your mood, make you more optimistic, and relieve anxiety and stress. Here are three gifts you can give yourself in the spirit of self-care.
MAKE YOUR HOME COZY
“Self-care at home can be greatly enhanced by creating a comfortable and inviting environment with the right furniture,” says Jennifer Etherington, owner of Avenue B Home Decor. Here are her suggestions to incorporate self-care into your living space:
Cozy Seating
Choose plush, comfortable armchairs and sofas where you can relax with a book or watch your favourite show. Look for options with soft fabrics and good support.
Lighting
Use floor lamps or table lamps with warm light bulbs. Consider dimmable options to adjust the mood. Candles can create a calming atmosphere, perfect for winding down.
Relaxation Zones
Create a small reading nook with a comfortable chair, good lighting, and a side table for books and a cup of tea.
Tech-Free Zones
Set up furniture arrangements that encourage tech-free relaxation, like a screen-free reading corner or a puzzle table. Display artwork or photos that make you happy and inspire positive feelings. Use soft throws and decorative pillows to add warmth and comfort to your furniture.
“Creating a self-care space in your home doesn’t have to be complicated. Just focus on comfort, organization, and personal touches that make you feel relaxed and happy!”
SPLURGE ON A NEW OUTFIT
“Planning ahead gives you confidence: that’s the best kind of self-care,” says Shai Thompson, owner of House of Lily Koi. “This is the best time to find outfits for the party season – it gets so busy in December, it’s mayhem,” she explains. “Make your own shopping plan by listing which events or family gatherings you’ll be going to.”
“This is a photographic season – family and friends get together to celebrate the holidays and make memories that will last a lifetime. How do you want to present yourself?” Shai says it’s important to consider how we might be wearing the outfit. For example, we’re often sitting down at gatherings, so it needs to be comfortable for that.
“Sometimes people walk away from that shiny object on the rack, thinking ‘where am I ever going to wear this?’ Being in the spirit of who you are, and celebrating the self for the season, could mean giving yourself permission to have that glamour. Or it could mean accessorizing the classic dress in your closet – taking something that looks great on you and breathing new life into it. When you take the time to present yourself well, you feel confidence – and that’s key. If you feel good in what you’re wearing, that will shine through.”
CREATE A SKINCARE ROUTINE
“Education around skin and skincare is so important,” says Angela Echlin, owner of Skin by Angela. “Many people rely on advice from TikTok or influencers, but it’s often not based on science. It’s crucial to seek advice from a qualified esthetician because misguided recommendations can cause unnecessary skin struggles. For your skincare regime, you need a good cleanser – I like cleansing oils that are 100% acne-safe – and a quality moisturizer for your skin type, to use day and night. Start simple, especially if you’re busy. If you’re younger, focus on prevention with hydrating products and antioxidants. After 25 years of age, add in a retinaldehyde serum and get facials to slow down the aging process.”
One common misconception is that winter is “peel season” – for most skin types, it’s not. “Our skin is at its most sensitive in winter,” explains Angela. “I recommend establishing a daily home care regime first to create healthy skin, and ensuring a peel is suited to your skin type to avoid significant inflammation.”
“The skin requires year-round sunscreen. There are now elegantly formulated sunscreens that are 100% acne-safe. They not only protect against skin cancer but also preserve collagen, helping to prevent premature aging and redness.”
“Skincare is self-love. It can reduce stress and offer a sense of relaxation. I understand how transformative the right products can be for our skin and our self-esteem. Healthy skin speaks for itself, and nurturing it properly can have a powerful impact on how we feel about ourselves.”
